February 2026 Newsletter

Programs

South Chicago Quality of Life Plan Celebration 

On Saturday, January 31st, a celebration was held at the SALUD Center, to announce the completion of the South Chicago Quality of Life Plan. The event brought together representatives from United Way of Metro Chicago, LISC, local officials, and community partners and residents, all united in their commitment to South Chicago’s future. 

Committee members presented each of the QLP pillars—Arts and Culture, Economic Development, Education, Environment and Infrastructure, Health, Housing, and Safety—along with their goals and vision for community growth over the next several years.  Following the presentation, a motion was made to approve the QLP. A community acknowledgment banner was displayed for residents to sign, symbolizing their agreement and support for the plan moving forward. Read the QLP here. If you would like to be a part of a committee to put the QLP into action, contact Program Manager Tiarra Owens at [email protected]​

South Chicago Senior Satellite Center 

Claretian Associates is proud to announce that we are now managing the South Chicago Senior Satellite Center located at 9233 South Burley. The center offers a wide variety of activities and resources designed to support the health, wellness and social engagement of local seniors.  
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Seniors can participate in engaging activities such as tap dancing, cooking classes, and art classes. The center also offers a dedicated fitness area, Chicago Fitness Plus, where seniors can work with a personal trainer to stay active and fit.  
Each day from 11:00 – 11:45 AM, seniors can enjoy a nutritious cold or hot lunch provided through the City of Chicago’s Golden Diners program. In addition, a dietitian, nurse, and social worker are available to provide health and wellness education.  

The senior center also serves as a warming and cooling center during periods of extreme temperatures, offering a safe and comfortable environment for community members.  Visit the senior center Monday through Friday from 8:30 – 4:30 PM. All seniors are welcome! ​

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We Are Building 

STEEL Homes

Claretian Associates has completed the appraisals and Phase I environmental assessments for the lots slated for the future STEEL Homes development, formerly known as Getting to Home. This marks another milestone in advancing new housing opportunities in South Chicago. 
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Through the City of Chicago’s City Lots for Working Families program, Claretian plans to develop 14 single-family homes on long-vacant lots located along the 8000, 8900 and 9100 blocks of South Buffalo Avenue. These new homes will help revitalize the neighborhood, create opportunities for homeownership, and bring long-term stability to local families. For more information contact Paul Panciera at [email protected].

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Announcements

Light in the Night Events 

Join Communities Partnering 4 Peace, for the March series of Light in Night events, on March 13th, 20th, and 27th .  These community events will take place across the neighborhoods of South Deering, South Chicago, and South Shore. Enjoy an afternoon from 4:00 until 6:00 PM filled with music, delicious warm food, and valuable community resources provided by the CP4P violence prevention team.  These events are designed to create safe, positive spaces where neighbors can come together and support one another.

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Fitness Center 

Come visit us at the fitness center and take advantage of our very affordable memberships: Classic $14.99, Classic Plus One $25, and Classic. As a member, you can take advantage of our free “Get Fit Class” every Wednesday and Thursday at 10:30 AM.

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